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ARICHAT – Having learned some lessons from his electoral defeat in 2016, a former Richmond County municipal councilor is hoping voters in Isle Madame will trust him to represent them once again in the coming municipal election.

Paramedic Rod Samson, a native of Petit de Grat, served from 2012-16 in Richmond County’s former District Two, which took in such communities as Petit de Grat, Little Anse, Samson’s Cove, Alderney Point, and Cap-Auguet. Following the realignment of the county’s municipal boundaries in 2016 and the reduction of Richmond’s municipal districts from ten to five, Samson attempted to extend his council tenure by running in the new District One, which now included the eastern half of the community of Arichat and several outlying areas.

However, in a loss that he describes today as “devastating,” Samson was defeated by former councilor James Goyetche. The two men are now facing off again in District One, with newcomers Brandon Boudreau and Shawn Samson also vying for the seat.

Speaking to TELILE 24/7 host Adam Cooke in the run-up to this weekend’s municipal vote, Samson took the blame for his 2016 loss, saying that the defeat taught him “some tough lessons” about maintaining communication with his constituents and being available to hear their needs and concerns.

However, Samson does not regret the stands he took on several difficult issues during his previous council term. He joined three other councilors in backing the 50 per cent reduction in Richmond’s council seats, while the remaining six councilors pushed for the status quo. Samson also joined a local community group in advocating for a new sidewalk project for Petit de Grat, even though the pitch was ultimately defeated at the council table.

Asked for his inspiration in terms of public service, Samson pointed out that he had always appreciated the support and kindness of the councilor that preceded him in the former District Two, John Boudreau, who served as Richmond County Warden from 2006 until he was claimed by cancer in 2012. Samson noted that it was Boudreau who first encouraged him to run for municipal politics, and added that this relationship still inspires him eight years later.